Former Antioch star fatally shot at U. of Memphis

Former Antioch High star football player Taylor Bradford was fatally shot on Sunday night at the University of Memphis, where he was a player on the football team.

According to the university student newspaper, The Daily Helmsman, Bradford, 21, was shot about 10 p.m. and the school’s campus was put on lock-down by university officials at 4 a.m. Monday morning.

Bradford, a defensive lineman who transferred to Memphis from Samford, was an Antioch star from 2002-2004. He was named all-region and helped lead the Bears to a 9-2 record in 2004. He was also all-state in track in the discus and holds AHS record in the shot put and discus.

The university released a statement this morning indicating that although specific information cannot be released about the shooting, “the initial investigation indicates this was an act directed specifically toward the victim and was not a random act of violence.”

A candlelight vigil honoring Bradford was planned on the University of Memphis campus for 7 p.m. Monday night. A memorial plaque has also been placed on the tree his car hit at the time of his death.

Classes have been canceled at the university to assist police in its investigation.

Antioch area school board member Karen Johnson, who has worked with Bradford’s mother, said she is still in shock about the incident.

“I’m deeply saddened and… everyone I’ve spoken with that have served with [Bradford’s mother] extends their prayers to the family,” Johnson said. “We’ll be there to do whatever is necessary to provide support to the family.”

She said Antioch High School provided grief counselors for students today.

Bradford's brother Vincent, also a graduate of Antioch High School, currently plays football for Kentucky State University.

Very tragic.CP, I don't see why this is given an opinion feature, the only thing that I see becoming of this is a lot of bad mouthing towards Memphis; and what is that going to prove while yet the family is mourning the loss of a talented young man?TG

By:gdiafante on 12/31/69 at 6:00

Such a tragedy.

By:MsTyphani on 12/31/69 at 6:00

With regard to what I said above, I just read this...According to the TN News Digest, The Memphis Metro area had the highest crime rate in the nation in 2006, according to data from the FBI.Wow I didn't know it was the highest, this is even more tragic than I thought. I am deeply saddened...

By:Tinsoldier on 12/31/69 at 6:00

On the same note, my alma mater, The University of Memphis, had one of the highest safety and security ratings among college campuses in the US last year. Regardless, it is a horrible tragedy. If you have an interest in college athletics message boards, please pay a visit to www.memphistigers.org. There is much conversation on this tragedy among fans, students and alumni. Thanks!